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Today’s practice may just be the most countercultural discipline we cover: submission.

In our current climate, to submit is to forfeit autonomy, to void independence. In Jesus’ economy, though, it’s the opposite. Submission is freedom. It’s wisdom. It’s inviting those with more experience and longer obedience to weigh in on the best course of action for our lives. And perhaps most of all, submission is actually following through on the direction you’re given from elders, counsel, or the Lord in true obedience.

Where submission gets warped, though, is when it’s one-sided. We’re told, “All of you be subject to one another.” It’s important to remember that mutual submission is the name of the game in order for submission to be meaningful and Christ-honoring. To truly submit is not subjecting yourself to abuse; rather, submission is deeply rooted in respect and love and care.

When we submit, we are not abdicating agency or personhood. Instead, submitting is a call for help. To quote Dallas Willard, “In submission, we engage in the experience of those in our fellowship who are qualified to direct our efforts in growth and then add the weight of their wise authority on the side of our willing spirit to help us to the things we woul dlike to do and refrain for the things we don’t.”

How truly blessed are those who are willing to submit. Today, consider being one of them. Welcome Home.

Learn more about submission through today’s video.

Today’s invitation:

Here’s a simple opportunity to grow in submission. Today, ask yourself who are some people you would like to be like, whose character and spiritual life you admire. Then, start by asking them a question. Allow God to guide you in who you choose and what you say, but ultimately move toward finding a spiritual guide or leader to whom you can submit. And while you do, be at Home with the Father.